The “old heart”of Sri Poyyatha Vinayagar Moorthi Temple still pumping strong in Melaka.The old Sri Poyyatha Vinayagar Moorthi Temple stands proudly in the centre of Melaka city accompanied faithfully by a small Chinese sundry shop on the right and a mosque on the left. (Two shops away)
Interestingly, this Hindu temple was originally built in 1781 on a land granted by the Dutch. Therefore, you could notice some Dutch architectural features at this temple. It is recorded to be the oldest temple of its kind in Malaysia which is continuously used. Based on the name of the temple itself, it signifies that it is dedicated to the deity Vinayagar; also known as Ganesha. As you walk into the small rectangular shaped temple, you will notice a beautiful black Indian stone sculpture on the central altar. This central altar is consecrated to Vinayagar, represented by the stone sculptured in the deity’s likeness with an elephant’s head that you have just admired.
Return from Sri Poyyatha Vinayagar Moorthi to Historical Fun
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The side altars are dedicated to Vinayagar's father, mother and younger brother deity, Lord Muruga. Most of the Hindu religious activities and festivals in Melaka will be directly or indirectly linked back or connected to this old temple. Some of the notable festivals are 